The European Space Agency (ESA) is Europe’s gateway to space. Its mission is to shape the development of Europe’s space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world.
Find out more about space activities in our 23 Member States, and understand how ESA works together with their national agencies, institutions and organisations.
Exploring our Solar System and unlocking the secrets of the Universe
Go to topicProtecting life and infrastructure on Earth and in orbit
Go to topicUsing space to benefit citizens and meet future challenges on Earth
Go to topicMaking space accessible and developing the technologies for the future
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This timelapse video shows the Soyuz TMA-13M spacecraft during roll out from its MIK preparation building, raising the launcher into its vertical liftoff position on the launch pad, and the launch 28 May 2014 from the Russian Baikonour cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
The Expedition 40/41 crew onboard were ESA astronaut Alexander Gerst, Roscosmos commander Max Suraev and NASA astronaut Reid Wiseman. Six hours later they reached their destination and new home for the next six months: the International Space Station.
Directed by Stephane Corvaja, ESA
Edited by Manuel Pedoussaut, Zetapress
Soundtrack : White Sun of the Desert, music: Isaak Schwarz, lyrics: Bulat Okudzhava, performed by Pavel Luspekaev